07/26/2026
I’ve been seeing this a lot lately, and I think it’s worth clearing up.
Many people, even agency owners and referral sources, use “home care” and “home health” as if they’re the same thing. They’re not.
In fact, one of the biggest misconceptions I hear is someone saying they own a “home health care agency.” It’s either a home care agency or a home health agency.
Here’s the difference:
• Home Care provides non-medical support that helps clients remain safe and independent in their homes. This includes services like personal care, companionship, meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, respite care, and medication reminders. These services are typically provided by caregivers, PCAs, or CNAs, depending on your state’s regulations. Home care is commonly paid for through private pay, long-term care insurance, or certain Medicaid waiver programs.
• Home Health provides skilled medical services ordered by a physician. This includes skilled nursing, wound care, medication administration, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and other clinical services provided by licensed healthcare professionals. Home health is often covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or commercial health insurance when eligibility requirements are met.
The difference isn’t just the services you provide. It affects your licensing requirements, staffing, reimbursement, marketing, and the regulations your agency must follow.
When we use the correct terminology, we educate our communities, help families find the right services, and strengthen the credibility of our industry.
Let’s make it a habit to use the right language. It matters more than you may think.